mayda Ferguson, DDS
Having bad breath is not necessarily a health condition. However, bad breath that doesn’t go away can be quite concerning, especially if you enjoy spending a lot of time with friends or speaking with people at your job. In some cases, it could be a sign of an untreated health condition, but you wouldn’t know for sure until you spoke with a dentist in Metairie. By doing so, you can confirm the source of the problem and get it properly treated.
So what are considered common causes for bad breath? Here are several to consider and what you should do next to prevent them.
Foods: The First Culprit to Consider
Waking up in the morning with bad breath is one thing, but coffee is only going to make that breath even worse. Coffee dries out the mouth, making it easier for oral bacteria to move, multiply and continue releasing plaque acids that cause dental disease and bad breath.
If you aren’t much of a coffee drinker, it could also be other foods you eat on a regular basis. Garlic, onions, brussels sprouts, certain cheeses and other pungent foods can leave a lingering smell in your mouth. While dairy products like cheese are generally good for teeth, they can still dry out your mouth.
Poor Oral Hygiene, Medications and Gum Disease
One of the most common causes of bad breath is just a poor oral care routine. If you aren’t brushing or flossing enough, it leaves behind plaque on the surface of your teeth, gums and tongue.
Alternatively, certain medications are known for having dry mouth as a common symptom. If you’re older and you take several medications, double check with the label or ask your doctor if dry mouth is common with that medication. If you can’t be given another medication without that side effect, you’ll just need to increase how often you practice oral care.
Finally, gum disease can easily cause bad breath if left untreated. As plaque begins breaking down the connective tissue holding teeth in place, it will only contribute more to your chronic bad breath.
The Best Ways to Reduce Chronic Bad Breath
Start by modifying your diet to make it more balanced. Include foods that are high in water-content, such as fruits and vegetables. Reduce your consumption of sugars, starches and particularly pungent foods like garlic, onions or coffee.
If these steps prove unsuccessful, make sure that you are brushing at least twice a day using a fluoridated toothpaste. Floss at least once a day to remove plaque from the sides of teeth. Brush your tongue by reaching towards the back of your throat, then gently brushing towards the tip to remove the biofilm. This film collects plaque, bacteria and food debris, which all contribute to bad breath.
Visit the dentist to confirm no dental disease or any other underlying condition is present. A dentist may recommend you a prescription-level mouthwash that controls the growth of bacteria in your mouth. If that doesn’t help, it may be time to see a general doctor who can confirm no systemic issues are present.
Are you suffering from chronic bad breath? Schedule an appointment with a dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Mayda Ferguson earned her dental degree from Louisiana State University. Today, she holds a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, proving her commitment to continuing her education and providing the best dentistry possible. To learn more about her practice, you can contact her through her website.
